Japanese retailer Shellman has given Raymond Weil’s vintage-inspired Millesime a gentle makeover with the Millesime Centre Seconds Shellman Limited Edition. While staying faithful to the original in overall style, the Shellman edition incorporates numerous subtle tweaks that reflect the detail-oriented approach of Japanese watch enthusiasts.

The Shellman edition features a domed, “sector” dial with a two-tone “champagne gold” finish with a single Breguet numeral at 12 o’clock. But more notable is the case, which resembles the standard version on its face, but is actually thinner at just 9.25 mm, giving the watch a surprisingly slim profile.

Initial thoughts

In keeping with Shellman’s past limited editions, the new Millesime is vintage inspired and thoughtfully designed. Though it resembles the standard models in many ways, the Shellman edition is substantively different in several key respects, including with the two-tone, domed dial and thinner case. These refinements enhance the vintage flavour of the watch, and also give it better proportions.

However, the typography for the brand name and “Automatic” is identical to that of the standard model. While the modern font doesn’t have the same vintage feel as the rest of the design, the print is in dark grey and less prominent.

The Shellman edition is priced at JPY308,000 with taxes, or around US$1,950, which is about the same as the standard model. With its greater appeal and limited numbers, it is an easy choice over the regular production version.

That said, the Millesime line in general is priced slightly higher than the competition with similar movements. Comparably priced watches typically have slightly higher-end movements, while watches with the same Sellita calibre are often less expensive.

Sector dial

The case of the Shellman edition is identical to the standard model in all dimensions, except for thickness, which is reduced by 1 mm to 9.25 mm. The sub-10 mm case is notably slim for an inexpensive watch equipped with a Sellita movement.

Moreover, the reworked case retains the domed sapphire crystal that adds to the vintage feel, particularly when paired with the domed dial.

Entirely in “champagne gold”, the “sector” dial is nonetheless two tone thanks to different surface finishing applied to each sector. The centre is vertically brushed, while the chapter ring is satin, while the minute track features concentric stamping.

Powering the watch is RW4200, which is a Sellita SW200-1 that beats at 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz) and offers 41 hours of power reserve. It’s a no-frills calibre but dressed up with a rotor bearing the “W” emblem of Raymond Weil.

Key facts and price

Raymond Weil Millesime Centre Seconds Shellman Limited Edition
Ref. 2925-STC-JAP01

Diameter: 39.5 mm
Height: 9.25 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Cal. RW4200
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 41 hours

Strap: Brown calf-skin leather strap

Limited edition: 30 pieces
Availability: Now at Shellman stores in Tokyo
Price: JPY308,000 including tax

For more, visit Shellman-dearwatchlover.com.